DEC proposed 2017 freshwater fishing regulation changes now available for public review

Submitted

Fri, Feb 19th 2016 10:45 am

Anglers
are encouraged to review and comment on potential changes

Based on the state's ongoing monitoring of New
York's freshwater fish populations and discussions with anglers, the New York
State Department of Environmental Conservation has identified potential changes
to the fishing regulations and is seeking additional angler feedback. Changes
being considered to the current freshwater fishing regulations are now
available at http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/73762.html.
If approved, these regulation changes would take effect April 1, 2017.

Many of the changes being considered are intended
for safeguarding and/or expanding fish populations while enhancing angling
experience and enjoyment. Other changes under consideration are focused on
eliminating special regulations that did not achieve their intended purpose, in
a continuing effort to simplify New York fishing regulations.

Proposed warmwater regulation changes include
temporarily adjusting creel and minimum size limits for walleye as part of
DEC's multiyear effort to establish walleye populations in candidate waters, as
well as protecting walleye where they congregate during the spawning season.
Coldwater regulation changes being considered involve the adjustment of creel
limits for walleye and minimum size limits for select waters based on recent
biological assessments.

Following the review of the public feedback received
and further evaluation this winter, DEC will advance proposals that have
general angler acceptance and are likely to result in better fishing. The
proposals will be advanced in accordance with New York state's rulemaking
process, and will include a formal public comment period. At this time, DEC is
soliciting initial feedback on what may be proposed later this year. Input will
be accepted through March 31.

DEC welcomes and encourages feedback on the
regulation changes currently under consideration. To view these potential
changes and to provide input, visit the DEC website. Hard copies of the list of
changes being considered, as well as instructions on how to submit feedback by
regular mail, can be obtained by contacting Shaun Keeler, at New York State
DEC, Bureau of Fisheries, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-4753.